WMU Trustees Approve Tuition Increase

FAST FEEDBACK KALAMAZOO (NEWSCHANNEL 3) - They heard it was coming, and now students know just how much tuition will go up at Western Michigan University.

The tuition rates at Western will go up 6.4% for in state students.

That increase is lower than the tuition hikes at other state universities. Grand Valley's tuition is going up 9.9%, Michigan State 9.6%, U of M will boost rates more than 7%, and Eastern Michigan will raise rates by 9.5%.

Settling on a tuition rate for the upcoming semester was the first order of business for Western's new President. Doctor John Dunn and the board say it's the best they could do, with students in mind.

"Our proposed tuition increase is a modest six point four percent," said Dunn.

In his first tuition presentation Doctor Dunn impressed the board who seem confident the university is set to make a turnaround.

"We'd have loved to keep it at zero, but economic reality with the state decline in funding, we really didn't have a choice," said board chair Daniel Pero.

It'll amount to about $400 more per year in tuition bills per student.

"My dad pays for everything, he hits the roof," said student Afahimeh Baziari.

Still, the university is hoping parents will find this increase easier to swallow than the increases that are nearing ten percent at many other Michigan schools. Students footing their own bills say it'll mean working a few more hours to make ends meet.

"It's pretty tough, lot of working, waking up in morning go to class, back to work," said student Jerbor Nelson.

Western is also introducing what's called the "Western Edge," guaranteeing room rates for incoming freshmen and end of the semester incentives for students who meet certain requirements.

"The message is 'students we care about you.' This is a great university, a successful university, we want you to be successful here," said Dr. Dunn.

There are high schoolers who are touring college campuses right now.

We want to know what you think about the tuition increase. Is 6.4% a fair increase for Western's students? Leave your opinion in the comments below.